Actor Yoo Ah In (real name Uhm Hong Sik) known for his roles in dramas such as Six flying dragons AND Sungkyunkwan scandal, He asked for leniency after being sentenced to four years in prison for drug use.
On December 24, the Fifth Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court held a trial hearing for Yoo Ah In’s appeal on charges of violating South Korea’s Narcotics (Psychotropic Substances) Control Law.
Following the examination of witnesses, the prosecution requested a four-year prison sentence, in line with the requests of the first trial.
“The sentence should be the same as the original,” they said.
“I apologize to those who were hurt and disappointed by my actions,” Yoo Ah In said in his closing statement.
“I caused irreparable harm to my parents, colleagues, supporters and fans who gave me their infinite trust. It was a betrayal and a crime. I deeply regret it.”
The actor reiterated his commitment to growth during his detention reflection period.
“I am grateful for this time of reflection and am committed to rehabilitation and recovery. I make this vow with firm determination before those who are watching my words here and the public, and I swear it before this sacred court,” he said .
“Wherever I am, I will never lose sight of the gravity of my crime and will not abandon my conscience with a right mind. I sincerely ask for an opportunity to show my firm will to contribute to society through learning and living. I will face the world with more maturity and health.”
Yoo was indicted in October 2023 for abusing substances such as propofol and ketamine, used over 180 times between September 2020 and March 2022.
The actor also received illegal sleeping pill prescriptions from someone else more than 40 times. Yoo was accused of smoking marijuana in the United States with four accomplices.
In the first trial, Yoo was sentenced to one year in prison and hit with a fine of two million won (~$1,300 USD).
The court, however, was unable to find enough evidence to convict him on charges of marijuana use or destruction of evidence and acquitted him of those charges.
The prosecution appealed, doubling the heavier sentence, and Yoo’s side appealed the first trial’s decision.
“He did not intentionally violate the law or regulations, but developed an addiction to sedative drugs due to an already physically and mentally difficult situation,” Yoo’s defense said in the first trial, asking for leniency for the conditions the actor had suffered after losing his health. father in August.
The next sentencing in Yoo’s trial is scheduled for February 18, 2025.
